VBS File Extension
VBScript Format
- File Type vbs
- Developer Microsoft
- Popularity
- Application Microsoft Visual Basic
- Category Developer Files, Blocked Email Attachment Files, Executable Files, Dangerous Files
- Format Text
What is a VBS file?
The VBS extension is used by VBScript Format and falls under the categories of Developer Files, Blocked Email Attachment Files, Executable Files and Dangerous Files, covering 1416 files.
Microsoft, the developer of the VBScript Format (VBS), has released file format and 242 programs designed to handle them.
VBS files are compatible with various operating systems, including Windows, Mac OS and Linux. There are 11 programs available to open a VBS file, including popular tools like Microsoft Visual Studio, Microsoft Windows 8 and Microsoft Windows 10.
Programs that support VBS files
Windows
How to open a VBS file?
If you are having trouble opening a VBS file, it usually means the right software is not installed. Choose a program from the list that matches your operating system. Next, visit the official website of the developer, download the software, and install it on your device.
Microsoft Visual Studio, Microsoft Windows 8 and Microsoft Windows 10 are recognized as the most popular software solutions for dealing with VBS files. If you wish to install the latest release of Microsoft Visual Basic, visit the official Microsoft portal and download the edition that works on any operating system.
Once Microsoft Visual Basic is installed, the OS should configure it as the default tool for opening VBS files.
Set Microsoft Visual Basic as the default VBS handler
Setting a default program by file type in Windows
- Right-click on your VBS file and choose the "Open With" option. Then click "Choose another app" to continue the process;
- In the pop-up window, find and select the Microsoft Visual Basic application from the available options;
- Make sure the "Always use this app" checkbox is checked and click "OK" to confirm your choice as the default app for opening VBS files.
Choose an app to open a file on Mac
- Right click or use Control + left click on the desired VBS file to launch the file options menu;
- Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
- Towards the bottom of the window, find the "Enable" menu, which is already set to the default option, "Recommended Programs";
- In this menu, select "All Programs" and search for Microsoft Visual Basic. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make it the default option.
How to edit a VBS file?
Editing VBS files requires installing professional software that lets you open and edit developer files. Online editors have more limitations compared to dedicated VBScript Format programs.
List of Top VBS editors 2026
According to these factors, we have compiled a list of available VBS editors.
| VBS Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visual Studio Code | Microsoft | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.8 out of 5 (47 reviews) |
| Notepad++ | Notepad++ Team | Windows | 4.4 out of 5 (44 reviews) |
| Adobe Dreamweaver | Adobe | Windows, Mac OS | 4.2 out of 5 (45 reviews) |
| Microsoft Visual Studio | Microsoft | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.2 out of 5 (41 review) |
| Microsoft Visual Basic | Microsoft | Windows | 4.1 out of 5 (46 reviews) |
Convert to and from VBS
If a VBS file is cumbersome, converting it to formats such as VBA or other supported types can make it easier to manage.
Converting a VBS file may not fully retain all functionality, but it is generally possible to return it to the original format.
Convert VBS to other file formats
Converting Files to VBS Format
Effective solutions for VBS file problems
If VBS files are giving you trouble, small modifications to your software can help. Check out the troubleshooting tips below to fix these issues.
What are the possible solutions to recover a corrupt VBS file?
Start a data recovery program and open the damaged VBS file. Go to the menu and select the "Repair" option to repair the file. Allow the recovery process to complete, which will automatically repair the damaged developer files.
Are there any symptoms that my VBS file is damaged?
Corrupted VBS developer files may show the following signs:
- Opening the file in Microsoft Visual Basic or other programs causes them to hang or crash;
- Error dialogs are displayed when interacting with the file;
- Opening the file results in an error or a failed attempt;
- Unexpected expansion of the total size of the VBS file;
- Editing the archive in Microsoft Visual Studio is accompanied by slow performance or delays;
What are the possible causes of Microsoft Visual Basic crashing?
The absence of software updates can cause Microsoft Visual Basic to crash. It is recommended to install the latest available updates for Microsoft products.
Restarting your computer can resolve numerous common problems, so it should be the initial step before changing any software-related settings.